LGBT therapists in Covina, CA

I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, working with individuals and couples for over 25 years. I believe strongly in the benefits of processing the challenges of life with a supportive and open-minded "witness" in order to get perspective and make hard decisions. I worked with families at Children's Hospital and PsyCare Inc. in San Diego, before opening my private practice in 2003.

Hello! My approach is centered in the belief that authentic connection with ourselves and others heals. Therapy is an opportunity to dive deep, to develop greater self knowledge, to come into wholeness, accepting and integrating all of our parts and aligning our lives with our Truth and the fullness of who we are. I look forward to the opportunity to support you.

Welcome and thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. As a licensed therapist practicing in both California and New York, I believe deeply in the inherent resilience and transformative potential within every individual. I earned my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. Throughout my clinical practice, I have supported clients across all life stages in navigating complex emotional challenges, including trauma, anxiety, and depression, while empowering them to cultivate healthy, fulfilling interpersonal relationships.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California since 2008. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and respect for each client’s unique life story.

I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, stress, health issues, and interpersonal relationship challenges, trauma, grief, aging, and end-of-life concerns. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths while moving toward greater clarity, healing, and emotional balance.

Professional Journey

Melissa became licensed in California in 2010 as an LCSW, following her Master’s Degree. Since then, she has continued learning and growing. Her career began in 2006, working with families experiencing various crises and trauma. Melissa has pursued additional training to specialize further. She has worked with depression, life transition issues, anxiety, panic disorders, identify questions, and lgbtqia populations.

Specialized Training

Melissa is trained in somatic therapy and EMDR therapy, which are effective for treating clients with experiences of sexual abuse and assault. She has also studied sexuality and somatic sex therapy, coaching clients on how to reconnect erotically with themselves and others.